Yes, a pack trip is one of the best ways to explore Wyoming’s mountains, especially if you’re a hunter or outdoorsman seeking remote country, wildlife-rich terrain, and an authentic Western experience. In fact, few adventures give you the combination of access, comfort, and scenery that a professionally guided pack trip provides. Wyoming’s backcountry is rugged, wild, and breathtaking, and a pack trip allows you to reach country that trucks, ATVs, and day hikes simply can’t.
For hunters, adventure travelers, and anyone craving a true mountain expedition, pack trips offer deep solitude, prime wildlife habitat, and the classic horseback-and-mule style that defines Western exploration. Below, we go through why pack trips are so effective, what to expect, and how to choose the right outfitter for your next Wyoming adventure.
Why Pack Trips Offer the Best Way to Experience Wyoming's Mountains
Before getting into the pointers, here’s why pack trips rise above other backcountry experiences: they provide safe access, ample gear capacity, and the freedom to camp deep in remote basins where elk, deer, moose, and high-country trout thrive.
What Makes Pack Trips So Effective for Hunters & Adventurers
Pack trips shine because they let you go farther, stay longer, and see more wildlife. Here are the specific advantages:
- True backcountry access — Horses and mules can travel where vehicles cannot, reaching untouched drainages and ridgelines.
- Comfort without compromise — Pack animals haul food, gear, tents, and camp supplies, giving you a high-quality wilderness experience without carrying a heavy pack.
- Wildlife-rich terrain — High basins and timber pockets deep in the mountains hold elk, mule deer, moose, and bear. Hunters benefit from solitude and reduced pressure.
- Authentic Western experience — Pack trips preserve the heritage of Wyoming's early mountain men and outfitters.
- Multi-day immersion — You're not rushing. You're living in the mountains, waking to cool mornings, horse bells, and fresh alpine scents.
- Perfect for both hunters and scenic travelers — Whether your goal is a trophy bull or a peaceful escape, pack trips cater to both rugged adventure and scenic recreation.
What You Can Expect on a Wyoming Pack Trip
This section sets the stage: a pack trip is both structured and flexible, giving you comfort, safety, and adventure from the moment you leave the trailhead.
The Rhythm of a Multi-Day Backcountry Expedition
Here’s what a typical pack trip looks like:
- Horseback travel into the mountains — Your guide leads you into high-country terrain with horses and pack mules carrying camp.
- A well-established camp — Expect quality tents, warm sleeping arrangements, and a well-organized cook area.
- Home-cooked meals — A classic outfitter perk: hearty, delicious meals prepared daily.
- Daily rides or hunts — Depending on your goal, you'll explore surrounding basins, glass ridges, hunt, or sightsee.
- Evenings around the fire — Storytelling, planning tomorrow's route, and enjoying Wyoming's incredible night skies.
- Professional horse handling and safety — Guides trained in horsemanship, backcountry navigation, and wildlife behavior.
Why Hunters Prefer Pack Trips Over Day Hunts or Drive-In Access
Hunters reading this section will clearly see why pack trips are more effective than hiking or vehicle-access hunts.
Pack Trips Give Hunters the Advantage They Need
Because a pack trip sets you up deep in prime habitat, you start each day closer to game. Key benefits include:
- Early-morning proximity to animals — Elk and deer are active at dawn; being camped nearby increases your opportunities.
- Reduced hunting pressure — Remote basins see fewer hunters, increasing your odds of encountering mature animals.
- Better glassing positions — High-country camps make it easier to reach vantage points before first light.
- Less energy spent hiking — Save your strength for the hunt, not packing gear miles uphill.
- Safer pack-out — With pack animals, getting your harvest out of rugged terrain is significantly easier and faster.
- Ideal for archery and rifle seasons — Whether stalking early-season bulls or high-country mule deer bucks, pack trips support both styles.
Backcountry Pack Trips: The Ultimate Way to Reach Remote Mountain Country
Before we list the reasons Wyoming is the top destination, one thing stands true: backcountry pack trips in Wyoming are legendary for their rugged peaks, wildlife density, and massive landscapes.
Why Wyoming Stands Out Above Other Western States
- Massive wilderness areas — The state includes multiple wilderness zones where motorized access is prohibited, making pack trips the primary way in.
- High elk populations — Wyoming consistently ranks among the best elk-hunting states in the West.
- Huge mule deer country — Alpine basins, sagebrush benches, and high ridges hold some exceptional bucks.
- Unmatched scenery — The wind-scoured peaks, alpine lakes, and conifer forests are postcard-worthy.
- Classic outfitting tradition — Wyoming is home to some of the best and oldest licensed outfitters in the country.
- Ideal for combo trips — Many hunters pair hunting with fishing opportunities, including backcountry trout and the option for a fly fishing trip later in the season.
Pack Trips vs. Day Hiking vs. ATV or Vehicle Access
Before we go into the comparison, note that pack trips combine mobility, comfort, and access in a way no other method matches.
How Pack Trips Outperform Other Backcountry Travel Methods
Compared to day hiking:
- You cover more ground with less fatigue.
- You can camp deep in the mountains without carrying weight.
- You reach areas that hikers rarely visit.
Compared to ATV or vehicle access:
- You can enter wilderness areas where motors are prohibited.
- Wildlife is less pressured and more natural in behavior.
- The experience is quieter, safer, and more immersive.
Compared to backpacking:
- No need to haul 40–60 lb packs.
- Better food, warmer gear, and a comfortable camp.
- Easier pack-out if you harvest an animal.
Pack trips deliver the perfect balance of physical challenge, comfort, and wild-country immersion.
Choosing the Right Outfitter for a Wyoming Pack Trip
Before selecting an outfitter, remember that safety, experience, and local knowledge are essential, especially in grizzly country and remote terrain.
Why Jackson Hole Outfitters Is a Top Choice
Jackson Hole Outfitters highlights key strengths that align perfectly with what hunters and adventure travelers need:
- Experienced guides who understand the terrain, game movement, and backcountry safety.
- Well-trained horses and mules are accustomed to rugged mountain travel.
- Established camps equipped with quality tents and supplies.
- Professional cooking that keeps hunters fueled for long days.
- Backcountry expertise in navigating Wyoming's remote mountain basins.
- Customizable adventures for hunters, families, or solo travelers.
Jackson Hole Outfitters’ experience and outfitting tradition make pack trips both safe and extraordinary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are pack trips safe for beginners or first-time riders?
Yes, professional outfitters pair you with gentle, trail-wise horses and guide you safely through all terrain.
How long is a typical pack trip?
Most span 3–10 days, depending on the goal, sightseeing, hunting, or extended wilderness travel.
Do pack trips include meals and gear?
Most outfitters provide full camps, food, tents, and pack animals. Riders typically bring clothing and personal gear.
Can hunters combine pack trips with fishing?
Absolutely, many fly-fishing outfitters offer a fly-fishing trip before or after hunting season. Some backcountry camps also offer trout fishing opportunities.
Final Thoughts: Are Pack Trips the Best Way to Explore Wyoming's Mountains?
For hunters, adventurers, photographers, and families wanting to experience the untouched beauty of Wyoming’s high country, the answer is simply yes. Pack trips offer access, comfort, wildlife opportunities, and an authentic Western adventure that no other method matches.
If you’re ready to experience the true backcountry, the way the early mountain men did, a professional pack trip with an experienced outfitter is the ultimate way to go.
Ready to Explore Wyoming's Mountains the Right Way?
If you want a real backcountry experience, quiet mountains, wildlife, strong horses, and expert guides, now is the perfect time to plan your pack trip. Whether you’re hunting, fishing, or just exploring, a guided trip makes the journey safer, easier, and far more enjoyable. Book your Wyoming pack trip today with Jackson Hole Outfitters and start your adventure with confidence.